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Fundamentals stressed during relay drills

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- The Twins held full-squad relay drills at Hammond Stadium on Wednesday to mark the first time they've utilized the main field for relay drills this spring.

Twins coaches hit balls into the gap with outfielders simulating game situations by throwing to second, third and home with the help of a relay man.

It's one of the most important drills of the spring in the eyes of Twins manager Ron Gardenhire, who was a utility infielder during his playing days with the Mets. He encourages infielders -- especially his shortstop -- to take over and lead during the drill.

"I liked a lot of things out there today," Gardenhire said. "I liked the way the guys went about their business. Their cutoffs and relays went really nice, all on one field. Kind of changed that up, got everybody on the same page, lot of newcomers coming in and seeing what we do and learning, how we go about it and terminology."

Gardenhire added he's been impressed by Pedro Florimon at shortstop, and he remains the favorite to win that job heading into Grapefruit League play.

"He's the incumbent and I like Florimon," Gardenhire said. "I love the way he catches the ball and the way he plays. He's stronger. We'll see how he does swinging the bat. I rely on my shortstop to control that infield. I like the way he goes about his business."